What Does that Check Engine Light Really Mean?

Did the “Check Engine” light come on in your car? You might instantly get a sinking feeling that this is going to mean big trouble (or expensive repairs). The truth is, it doesn’t have to be that way. First, you need to understand what this light means and what it does. Ignoring the light does not make the problem go away. Then you can get to the bottom of deciphering what the problem is.

The check engine light is more formerly known as the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) and is used to signal a message from the car’s computer that something is wrong. What that something is all depends on the code the computer is sending.

You can take your car in to have the message read. It usually costs between $75-$100. Some auto part stores will use their machine to check the error code for free. There are also some other ways to get a good idea of what’s going on before you take the car to be looked at. First, check to see if your gas cap is loose. It’s a simple thing that will often make the light come on. Other common problems that the check engine light may indicate are the spark plug wires, a mass air flow sensor problem, O2 sensor problem, or an issue with the catalytic converter.

Statistics have shown that nearly 10% of the vehicles on the road today have their check engine lights on. It’s really important that you don’t ignore the light. It may be something simple and inexpensive to fix. However, it may be something that will worsen over time. The longer you drive with the problem, the more damage you are doing to your vehicle and engine. So just bite the bullet and get it checked out.

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Hey. I'm Debi. I am a Philadelphia blogger who has a lot to say. I am recently engaged, and my fiance and I have 8 kids together, 7 living us, ranging from 20 to 7. I am a full time photography student, full time blogger, wanna-be full time traveler, and freelance writer. Our life tends to be a crazy, but it is filled with tasty food, fun adventures, and tons of family fun.

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